Small traders in Uganda are raising concerns over the new container clearing system introduced by the Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), which they say is squeezing them out of business.
The new system eliminates the practice of group clearing, where multiple traders could team up to clear a single container, each contributing a portion of the total clearing cost.
This arrangement allowed small traders to share expenses and make the process more affordable.
Under the new regulations, each trader must now separately clear their goods from the container and pay individually.
This means that instead of a group of traders collectively raising, for example, UGX 4 million each, an individual may now need to pay as much as UGX 8 million to clear their goods alone.
Many small importers have expressed frustration, arguing that the new system is pushing them to the brink of closure. “This change is too tough.
It may force some of us out of business because we can’t afford the high costs alone,” one trader lamented.
The URA has defended the new system, saying it is meant to enhance transparency and accountability in the clearing process.
However, traders are calling for a review, arguing that while transparency is important, the system should also be designed to accommodate the financial realities of small-scale businesses.
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